Sharon Chigeza

MUTARE – In a significant development aimed at enhancing agricultural production and improving the livelihoods of vulnerable communities, the Agriculture Marketing Authority (AMA) and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will result in more support for refugee farmers.

This MOU, signed by various stakeholders committed to improving the socio-economic conditions of refugees and local residents, will benefit particularly those residing in the Tongogara Refugee Settlement and the surrounding host community.

Tina Mleya, AMA’s Marketing and Public Relations Manager, emphasised the partnership’s focus on creating vital connections between refugee farmers and potential buyers, processors, and exporters.

“This collaboration aims to actively facilitate linkages that will enable refugee farmers to sell their produce and generate income, fostering economic independence,” Mleya stated.

By establishing these connections, the programme seeks to provide refugee farmers with the necessary tools and resources to thrive in the agricultural sector. Mleya highlighted that the initiative will enhance market linkages, provide access to regulatory frameworks, and offer training and advisory services.

“This is a very significant project for the authority because we are able to impact the livelihoods of people living in the refugee settlement and within the community of Manicaland,” she added.

The partnership aims to empower smallholder farmers from both the refugee camp and the host communities by providing them with strategic training on crop selection and production techniques. Mleya noted that by focusing on strategic crops, the programme believes it can significantly improve the livelihoods of these farmers.

This initiative marks a crucial step toward achieving food security, economic empowerment, and social cohesion among refugee communities and their host counterparts. The collaboration underscores the importance of integrating refugee farmers into the local agricultural economy, promoting sustainable practices, and enhancing overall community resilience.

Stakeholders believe that by equipping refugee farmers with the necessary skills and market access, the initiative will not only benefit individual farmers but also contribute to the broader economic development of the region. Through this partnership, the AMA and UNHCR aim to create a more inclusive agricultural landscape that recognises and harnesses the potential of all community members, regardless of their background.